Polarizing and Splitting Prisms

Polarization is one of the most important divisions of Optics. It has been applied in almost every aspect of modern optics. There are many
polarizing devices (ie. polarizing prisms, polarizing splitters, Brester polarizers, wave plates and etc.).

In general, there are three ways to obtain polarization, namely refraction, reflection and absorption.
Polarizing prisms are the most common devices in laser systems and other modern optical applications.
The benefits of polarizing prisms include high extinction, high transmittance, high damage threshold, and a wide transparent range.

The most common material for polarizing prisms is Calcite, which has big birefringence, no deliquescence, and chemical stability; a-BBO and
YVO4 are also available for UV and mid IR range, and high power systems.